Here is a good article about how cars determine the oil life and when to set the light. it also talks about re-setting the monitor and gives some interesting history on the subject as well. From the article:

"The most important thing to remember is that these estimates on the health of the oil are built around specific oils recommended by the automakers. Since the vehicle has no idea about the specification of the oil, it is critical the oil matches the oil life monitor..."

There is also information about Longer-Interval Oil Filters. From the article:

"You can’t judge an oil filter just by opening it up and counting the pleats. Most reputable oil filter manufacturers have a warranty that will cover engine damage if the filter fails within the OE-recommended oil change intervals. If a filter manufacturer does not have this type of warranty, don’t take a chance on their filters..."

Two-Lane Blacktop (1971) - This is the A#1 car movie on this gearheads list. The 55 Chevy used for road shots is a true ground pounding, noisy & visceral big block powered machine backed by a "Rock Crusher" M22 4-speed and although it's not mentioned in anything I've read, the car probably had the hot rear end of the day for strength, an Olds 3rd member. The main characters are all brooding, dark sorts which does nothing to overshadow the true star of the movie. More...Movie Trailer here.

American Graffiti (1973) - This is a story about the last night of fun for a pair of college bound Californians. Although not made to be car-centric, this movie has become one of the go-to movies for people who dig car movies. MMR says, this movie plays like a Disney film next to Two Lane with the saving grace being that the cars Do overshadow the clean cut stars in many instances.

Gumball Rally (1976) - A cross country race made by a myriad of entrants in a wide variety of cars, this movie combines a comedic slant with some real at-speed road racing.

Bullitt (1968) - Essentially a cop movie where the main character happens to use his personal car in pursuit of the bad guys, Bullitt is known for it's ten minute fifty three second chase scene which made this movie legendary....especially if you're not a fan of Dodge Chargers.

The Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) recently launched a four-part video series on lift safety featuring celebrity car builder/TV host Lou Santiago. In the YouTube series, Santiago gives a behind-the-scenes tour of the new LiftLab facility at ALI’s headquarters in Cortland, NY. Along the way, he shares lift safety tips and highlights a couple of cool vehicles in the facility—a 1969 Plymouth Road Runner and a 1946 Brockway heavy-duty truck. The first episode can be viewed on

“Lou’s been wrenching on cars and trucks since he was a kid,” said R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman, ALI president. “He got his start through the New York State BOCES program for diesel mechanics, served his country as a Navy Seabee and has shown millions of people how to build and repair vehicles through his television shows. He’s a great guy to deliver the message that although everyone makes mistakes, it is important to focus on using and maintaining lifts properly to stay safe on the job.”

As part of the video series campaign, ALI is offering a free pair of shop safety glasses with every order of the new Safety Tips poster Santiago highlights in the first episode. The 30x45-in. poster outlines 13 tips for safe lifting, including lift operation, maintenance and inspection. It’s available in packs of two for $38 with free shipping in the U.S.